Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta faces new challenges ahead of the North London derby as star midfielder Martin Ødegaard has picked up an injury while on international duty. Ødegaard, a key player for Arteta, hurt his ankle during Norway’s match against Austria on September 9, 2024.
The injury occurred when Ødegaard collided with Austrian player Christoph Baumgartner in the second half, forcing him to leave the pitch. Despite Ødegaard’s exit, Norway secured a 2-1 victory with a decisive goal from Erling Haaland.
Following the match, Norway’s coach Stale Solbakken expressed concern, stating, “Martin Ødegaard’s injury looks bad in the dressing room.” However, Norway’s team doctor, Ola Sand, provided a more optimistic update, noting that the injury might be a minor ankle sprain. He mentioned that further tests, including an MRI, would be conducted to assess the full extent of the damage.
On September 10, a photo surfaced showing Ødegaard on crutches boarding a private jet, heading back to London. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared that Arsenal’s medical team would evaluate his injury to determine his recovery time, especially with the crucial North London derby approaching.
Ødegaard’s potential absence adds to Arteta’s woes as Declan Rice is already sidelined due to suspension following a red card against Brighton. The derby against Tottenham Hotspur is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 15, 2024, and Arteta could be missing two of his key midfielders for this pivotal match.
